Apparatus for manipulating joints of a limb

Abstract

An apparatus for manipulating joints of a limb of a patient is provided. The limb comprises a plurality of limb segments, Each limb segment connects one or more joints. The apparatus includes one or more motor modules removably coupled to a supporting structure configured on the limb, each motor module including a plurality of motor drives. The apparatus also includes a manipulating exoskeleton assembly comprising a plurality of exoskeleton segments removably secured on a limb segment. Further, a plurality of actuating members is operatively connected to each motor module of the one or more motor modules. A first end of each actuating member is operatively connected to a motor drive of a motor module and a second end is removably coupled to an exoskeleton segment of the plurality of exoskeleton segments. Each actuating member is driven by a motor drive operatively connected to the each actuating member.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention, in general, relates to power assisted therapeutic devices. More specifically, the invention relates to an apparatus for manipulating joints of a limb of a patient.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Healthy working joints are of utmost importance in providing functional use of limbs and ultimately independence in an individual's life. The loss of joint functions result is a severe compromise of the ability to feed and care for oneself, and limits one's participation in work, social, and family life. Several injuries, diseases, and neurological disorders causing deformations of a limb or digits of the limb may result in loss of joint functions. These include paralysis (from central or peripheral nerve injuries), swelling, joint stiffness, pain, burns, scarring or broken bones. Such deformations often inhibit muscular, structural, or neurological functions of the limb or the digits of the limb, resulting in an individual's inability in carrying ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The loss of joint functions result is a severe compromise of the ability to feed and care for oneself, and limits one's participation in work, social, and family life.

Several injuries, diseases, and neurological disorders causing deformations of a limb or digits of the limb may result in loss of joint functions.

Such deformations often inhibit muscular, structural, or neurological functions of the limb or the digits of the limb, resulting in an individual's inability in carrying out day-to-day activities.

However, for rehabilitating small multiple joints of the hand, although CPM therapy has been proven beneficial, the therapy is seldom prescribed or used.

Images